Hiking Pico de Mijas: route and tips
The summit of the Sierra de Mijas sits at around 1150 metres, right above the white village. We walked it on a fresh spring morning and reached the top with the whole Costa del Sol at our feet, from Málaga to beyond Marbella. Not a technical climb, but a solid hike. Here is what you need to know before you go.
The route from Mijas Pueblo
The classic route starts in Mijas Pueblo, at the Ermita del Calvario above the village. From there you follow the broad forest tracks up through the pines, past the old quarries, until you near the bare summit. Allow about 3 to 4 hours up and a little less down, depending on your pace.
The paths are reasonably easy to follow, but not waymarked everywhere. Download an offline map or a track on your phone beforehand. Our general hiking guide for the Sierra de Mijas has more routes for those who want to take it easier.
What you see at the top
The reward is the view. On a clear day you look over the whole coastline: Fuengirola and Benalmádena to the left, Marbella to the right, and with really good visibility the mountains of Morocco on the horizon. There are transmitter masts at the summit, so the top itself is no beauty, but the panoramas along the way and from the ridge are fantastic.
Take your time for a break with something to eat and drink. Down in the village a well-earned terrace awaits, see our guide eating and drinking in Mijas Pueblo.
When to go
Do not do this climb in summer. Between June and September it is far too hot on the exposed slopes and there is hardly any shade above the tree line. The best months are October to May, with clear skies and pleasant temperatures.
Start early, ideally at sunrise, so you are at the top before the midday heat. Check the forecast beforehand in our weather guide for Mijas.
What to bring
Sturdy walking shoes are a must, the path is stony and loose in places. Bring plenty of water (at least a litre and a half per person), as there is nothing to buy along the way. Also: a cap, sunscreen, a windbreaker for the top, and something to eat.
Prefer to go with a guide or in a group? Guided walks are offered in the village and in La Cala, handy if you do not know the area yet.
How high is Pico de Mijas?
Pico de Mijas is about 1150 metres high, the highest point of the Sierra de Mijas, right above Mijas Pueblo.
How long does the climb to Pico de Mijas take?
Allow 3 to 4 hours up from Mijas Pueblo and a little less down, depending on your pace. A full day out, so start early.
Is Pico de Mijas hard to climb?
It is not a technical climb, but it is a solid hike with significant elevation gain and little shade above the tree line. With reasonable fitness and good shoes it is very doable.
When is the best time to hike Pico de Mijas?
October to May, with clear skies and pleasant temperatures. Avoid summer, when the slopes get far too hot.
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